How to Host a Nesting Party: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expectant Moms and Hosts

 

I’ve always been a big believer in celebrating life’s little moments, but let’s be real—welcoming a new baby is no small thing. It’s a huge, exciting deal! That’s why I’m so pumped to share something a little different, but incredibly meaningful—a nesting party.

Instead of the usual baby shower with games and adorable tiny outfits, you gather your favorite people, roll up your sleeves, and help the expectant mom tackle her pre-baby to-do list. It’s not just a party; it’s a love-filled, hands-on way to make life a little easier for the mom-to-be. Perfect for second (or third… or fourth) time moms, this alternative baby shower focuses on getting stuff done—organizing the nursery, prepping freezer meals, babyproofing—you name it.

It’s all about coming together to prepare the nest and making the transition to a bigger family smoother and more joyful. And if you’re thinking about throwing one for a mom-to-be, you’re in luck! I’ve got all my tips right here to help you plan the perfect nesting party. Let’s get to it!

Nesting Party `8

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Why Host a Nesting Party?

Picture a gathering where the excitement of a new baby is matched by the hum of activity—friends and family coming together not just to celebrate, but to pitch in and lend a hand. That’s what makes a nesting party so special.

Unlike the traditional baby shower that’s all about gifts and games, a nesting party is all about practical support. Think organizing the nursery, prepping freezer meals, or even assembling furniture. It’s the kind of event that makes life just a little easier for parents-to-be as they prepare for this big, beautiful new chapter.

I’ll admit, I didn’t even know what a nesting party was until I was invited to one last minute for a neighbor, right after we moved into our current home. I barely knew anyone there, but it turned out to be one of the best baby-related events I’ve ever been to.

The sense of purpose and community was incredible. We sorted through baby clothes, built a crib, and stocked her freezer with meals—all for her fourth baby. And honestly, it wasn’t just about the tasks. It was the laughter, the stories, and the connections we built while we worked. I walked in knowing hardly anyone and left feeling so much more connected to my new neighborhood.

That experience completely sold me on nesting parties. They’re not just practical; they’re meaningful. They’re a way to bring people together, ease the stress of those final weeks, and create memories that leave everyone feeling just a little bit closer.

 

Top Tips for Planning a Nesting Party

There are several items that you need to keep in mind when planning a nesting party as opposed to a more traditional baby shower. Here are the top tips I have for planning the ultimate fun and productive party:

Deciding the Date and Time

Because a nesting party is different than a traditional baby shower, there are a few items you should keep in mind before planning the date and time.

With the goal aimed at helping the family prepare for their new arrival, this party should be held in the third trimester a little closer to the due date than a normal baby shower. Think maybe 4 to 6 weeks before the baby is due.

A weekend party is probably your best way to get as many people as possible to come help but base it off the schedules of those you plan on inviting. And be sure to give guests plenty of time to plan in order to keep their schedules free.

Guest List

When I think about who to invite to a nesting party, I always start by considering those friends and family who would jump at the chance to roll up their sleeves and help. It’s not just about filling the room but inviting a mix of people who bring different skills to the table. You could have a super successful afternoon with just a handful of people.

And play into everyone’s strengths. You’ll want someone who’s a whiz at organizing, another who could cook up a storm of freezer meals, and perhaps someone who’s handy with assembling furniture. It’s crucial to keep the guest list intimate; too many cooks in the kitchen, or in this case, nesters in the nest, can make for cramped working conditions and diminish the cozy, productive vibe you’re going for.

More than just the numbers and skills, think about the mother’s comfort level. This gathering is all about supporting her, so each guest should be someone she feels at ease with, in this very personal time. Trust me, an atmosphere of familiarity and warmth can turn a day of chores into a memorable bonding experience for everyone involved.

Sending Out Invitations

When sending out the invitations for your nesting party, be sure to include all the important information – date, time, and location. But also be sure to inform guests that this is a different kind of baby shower and what type of tasks you will be tackling together on the big day.

This can easily be done with the traditional letter and stamp invitations or the more modern digital versions. Either way be sure to encourage prompt RSVPs! Knowing how many hands you’ll have on deck can make or break your planning. So, encourage your guests to let you know if they can make it sooner rather than later. Trust me, it’ll make your life a whole lot easier!

Planning the Nesting Tasks

But what exactly should you do during a nesting party? Really it just comes down to the typical nesting tasks a new mom would have. These include:

Talk with the mom to be before planning the details of the party and find out exactly what she needs and what she would find the most helpful for the party. The mom-to-be may be uncomfortable with other completing certain tasks so as her what are her priorities and any tasks or areas of the home she would like to be avoided. After all the entire party is meant to help her!

We were featured on the Rent. blog! Check out the recent article we were quoted in: What is a Nesting Party? How to Host and How to Show Up.

Create a Productive Atmosphere

While you are planning your nesting party, don’t forget that it is… well a party! Your guests are there to help first and foremost, but also to have a good time and enjoy each other’s company. It is crucial to create moments of fun and enjoyment throughout the party to increase productivity and keep the party going!

So, here’s how to make the magic happen: Crank up those catchy tunes that make you want to dance. There’s something about your favorite tracks playing in the background that injects an extra dose of joy into sorting baby clothes or assembling that tricky crib. Maybe ask the mom-to-be to make a playlist of her favorite hits before the party that everyone can jam to!

But in the middle of all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to take a breather. Make time to chat and soak up the moment—trust me, the laughs and stories will flow naturally. Balancing a bit of focus with plenty of fun is the secret sauce to a nesting party that’s both productive and unforgettable. Because at the end of the day, when we’re enjoying ourselves, we’re in our element, creating the sweetest little nest for the newest family member, wrapped up in all the love and good vibes.

Supplies and Equipment

It’s important to have all the supplies ready to go so that your party will go off without a hitch. Now this list is going to depend on exactly what tasks you are hoping to accomplish, but here are some ideas of supplies you may need for your nesting party.

  • Cleaning Supplies: Don’t forget the basics like multi-surface cleaners, sponges, and gloves. It’s all hands on deck, so if you’ve got extras laying around, bring them along.
  • Organizing Bins: These will be our best friends for decluttering and sorting. From baby’s closet to the kitchen pantry, every little bit helps. Make sure to have plenty of different sizes because you never know exactly which will fit in each space the best until you try them.
  • Tools for Assembling Furniture: Yes, that means screwdrivers and the ever-elusive Allen wrench. If you have a power drill, you’ll be the MVP.
  • Freezer Meal Containers: If you plan is to make some freezer meals at your party, be sure to have all the supplies ready to pack them neatly in the freezer. This includes Ziploc freezer bags, aluminum trays, plenty of foil, and some permanent pens for labeling.
  • Refreshment Supplies: We will get in the details of this in just a sec, but make sure to plan for the actual “party” aspect of the baby shower and feed your guests!

A great way to help involve guests is to ask them to bring some of the supplies for the nesting party. This could be in place of gifts or just anything extra they have lying around their homes that could be of use.

Serving the Perfect Refreshments

Let’s talk about keeping our hardworking nesting party crew well-fed and happy, because, let’s be honest, nothing brings people together like good food and drinks. When it comes to serving the perfect baby shower refreshments, we’re aiming for minimal effort with maximum satisfaction. Think of those light, easy-to-manage finger food options that don’t demand a pause in the action.

I’m all about a spread that’s just as fun to look at as it is to eat. Think platters piled with bite-sized sandwiches, colorful veggie or fruit trays, and maybe some sweet treats that get people talking. And for drinks? You can’t go wrong with iced teas, lemonades, and—if you’re in the mood to fancy things up—a mocktail station to keep everyone happy and hydrated.

The key here is to have food that’s easy to eat while working to keep with the whole nesting party “get stuff done” theme. Trust me, your guests will thank you for making it easy to munch, laugh, and lend a hand, all at the same time.

Incorporating Tradtional Baby Shower Elements

While a nesting party is definitely a unique baby shower option, that still doesn’t mean you can’t have several of the traditional baby shower elements sprinkled in there as well! There usually isn’t a lot of time to play games during your nesting party, but you could still set up a station of quick baby shower activities like advice for the parents or guessing games. Or nest for half of the time and play fun cheesy baby shower games for the other half.

You could even replace gifts entirely and host a diaper raffle with your nesting party, especially when the party is held for mom’s having the second, third, or tenth baby! There is no set rule book for how to host a nesting party (or really a baby shower in general for that matter) so check with the mom-to-be and see what she wants to have happen. After all, the day really is about her!

Documenting the Special Day

Make sure to document these amazing moments for the mom-to-be to look back on. While it definitely is not a traditional baby shower, how amazing would it be to see all these fun candid shots or videos of the friends and family who love you the most helping you prepare for your upcoming little one. I promise she will cherish these memories forever.

So make sure to take lots of pictures and videos during your nesting party. Maybe even have a polaroid camera for the occasion that everyone can pass around. These can be compiles into a darling memory book or even added to her baby book to look back on the fun times you all had!

Wrapping Up the Festivities

As the nesting party finished up, it’s important to leave room for the mom-to-be to express her gratitude to all who attended and showered her with love and support. Set aside a few moments for her to thank each guest, either individually or the whole group. It would be best to check the mom to figure out how she would like to do this.

Providing a guest book or a designated space for attendees to leave messages of encouragement and well wishes can also be a thoughtful touch. Remember, this baby shower is not just about preparing for the baby’s arrival but also celebrating the incredible community that surrounds the mom to be!


Final Thoughts on Hosting a Nesting Party

And that sums up everything thing you need to know before hosting your own nesting party. Whether you are the hostess or the guest of honor, this alternative baby shower idea is a great way to bring the community together in love and support of the mom-to-be!

From tackling that never ending to-do list to stocking the freezer with meals, the impact of the service provided during your nesting party will be felt over the next few months postpartum.

What surprised you about throwing a nesting party? Let me know in the comments below!

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About Me

Hey I’m Jess! I’m a mom of two boys and a labor and delivery nurse just trying to navigate this crazy thing called motherhood. I’m so glad you’re here!

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